Antiquing a Kitchen

Antique Finish

• Paint is a simple way to make new products have an antique look, and the technique requires just a little skill with a paintbrush. Apply an undercoat of paint to the surface of a cabinet or other kitchen furniture. The color will appear through parts of the top coat on the finished product, and so the color should fit with the look desired for the kitchen. After the undercoat paint dries, apply a bit of paste wax to areas that naturally would show wear and tear, such as corners, edges and around knob handles. A final coat of paint tops the paste wax. The areas covered with paste wax maintain the undercoat's color, creating the appearance of worn spots on the paint. Marring the item's surface with pumice, chains or a wire brush furthers the antique appearance.

Paint Colors

• Antique-style rooms have primarily neutral hues, particularly shades of white, cream and beige. For an added pop of color, an accent wall in a deeper color will keep the style antique but with a modern twist. Any paint used on the kitchen's walls, cabinets or other furnishings should have a slightly aged, worn appearance, and paint color can help achieve that look. Avoid bright, vibrant shades in favor of more watered down, earthy tones. Certain shades of red, blue, green and even gray will add a bit of visual interest to the kitchen.

Flooring

• The best flooring for an antique-looking kitchen is made with natural materials. Hardwood floors are ideal, particularly those with a warm, medium color. Because natural wood floors have a tendency to warp or crack when exposed to heat or humidity, engineered wood is a suitable alternative. Additionally, stone tile or slate work well, as does concrete styled to look like any of those products. All of these materials are highly durable and can withstand the wear and tear required of kitchen flooring.

Furnishings

• The kitchen's furniture and cabinets need an antique appearance or design. Hardy woods with traditionally styled metal hinges and knobs are ideal. Modern appliances can have custom-ordered front panels in the same style and color of the cabinets. Authentic antique furnishings can be restored and repurposed for use as an island, and the space can be accented with antique artwork, dishes and a clock. A chandelier over the island will give an authentic finishing touch to the kitchen. French Country or Mediterranean style are all good styles to draw from when antiquing a kitchen. Both incorporate design aspects and ideas from historic sources.